Phoenix, Ginebra in crucial out-of-town tiff
Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
A stinging loss to JC Intal and company in the previous conference is a good reason for Barangay Ginebra to be wary of Phoenix Petroleum.
“They beat us in the all-Filipino so we have a healthy respect for them,” said Ginebra coach Tim Cone ahead of their Petron Blaze out-of-town tussle in Panabo City on Saturday.
“Phoenix certainly has the ability to spread us out with all their shooters, and that make them a tough matchup for us,” Cone also said.
Ginebra looks to stick close with the leaders while Phoenix hope to start a run as they face off in the crucial road tiff nearing the homestretch of the Oppo PBA Commissioner’s Cup.
The Gin Kings sport a 4-3 win-loss slate while the Fuel Masters tote a 2-4 card as they set out for their match at 5 p.m.
“With the standings so tight every game is so crucial,” said Cone.
The two teams are coming off contrasting routes with Ginebra winning four of its last five games while Phoenix has dropped four of its last five assignments.
But Phoenix coach Koy Banal is hopeful they can turn things around soon.
He’s hoping it would be in Panabo City – the hometown of Phoenix Petroleum owner Dennis Uy.
“Everybody is positive and upbeat in our preparation especially as we are going up against the league’s most popular team,” Banal said.
“We have to have the concerted effort to be able to play a really good game in front of our owner’s family,” Banal pointed out.
Intal, Willy Wilson, Mac Baracael and Eman Monfort see red whenever they play Ginebra.
“We’re extra motivated when we play Ginebra,” said Intal, among many former Ginebra players in the Phoenix fold.
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